GILGIT: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has launched an emergency airlift operation to evacuate tourists stranded in Gilgit-Baltistan due to severe weather and landslides.
A Pakistan Air Force C-130 aircraft has been arranged to transport both domestic and foreign tourists affected by the ongoing monsoon situation. The flight is scheduled for Thursday, July 24.
Local officials confirmed that the region’s road network remains blocked in several areas due to heavy rainfall and flooding. The Karakoram Highway, a vital route, has also been affected, leaving many visitors unable to leave the area by road.
Tourists have been asked to immediately submit their full name, father’s or husband’s name, and national identity card number to secure a seat on the flight. The Gilgit district administration has urged people to contact the office of the Additional Deputy Commissioner for further assistance.
The airlift operation comes as monsoon rains continue to impact various parts of Pakistan. According to NDMA, at least 13 people have died in rain-related incidents in the last 24 hours. Seven deaths were reported in Punjab, followed by three in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, two in Islamabad, and one in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
In addition, 13 individuals sustained injuries during this period. The NDMA has warned of further heavy rainfall across the country and has asked residents to avoid low-lying and landslide-prone areas.
The ongoing rescue effort highlights the urgent response by authorities to ensure the safety of those affected by natural disasters. The NDMA airlifts Gilgit tourists operation is part of broader efforts to manage the challenges posed by Pakistan’s monsoon season.
For more details, read how NDMA issues landslide alert for northern areas here.
